Wireless Earpiece with a medical engine

ABSTRACT

A system, method, and wireless earpieces for implementing a medical engine utilizing wireless earpieces. A request is received from a user to be implemented by wireless earpieces. A medical engine is executed on the wireless earpieces. Information associated with the request is retrieved from one or more medical databases accessible to the wireless earpieces. An action is implemented to fulfill the request utilizing the information through the medical engine.

PRIORITY STATEMENT

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application62/414,920, filed on Oct. 31, 2016, and entitled Wireless Earpiece witha Medical Engine, hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND I. Field of the Disclosure

The illustrative embodiments relate to wireless earpieces. Morespecifically, but not exclusively, the illustrative embodiments relateto a medical engine for wireless earpieces.

II. Description of the Art

The growth of wearable devices is increasing exponentially. This growthis fostered by the decreasing size of microprocessors, circuity boards,chips, and other components. Thus far, wearable devices have beenlimited to basic components, functionality, and processes due to theirlimited footprint and space. At the same time, more and more users, havebecome dependent on network knowledge through virtual assistants, suchas Siri, Alexa, Cortana, and so forth. Virtual assistants have not beenfully integrated into wearables due to size constraints and availableprocessing power.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

One embodiment of the illustrative embodiments provides a system,method, and wireless earpieces for implementing a medical engineutilizing wireless earpieces. A request is received from a user to beimplemented by wireless earpieces. A medical engine is executed on thewireless earpieces. Information associated with the request is retrievedfrom one or more medical databases accessible to the wireless earpieces.An action is implemented to fulfill the request utilizing theinformation through the medical engine. Another embodiment provideswireless earpieces including a processor and a memory storing a set ofinstructions. The set of instructions are executed to perform the methoddescribed above.

Another embodiment provides a wireless earpiece. The wireless earpiecemay include a frame for fitting in an ear of a user. The wirelessearpiece may also include a logic engine controlling functionality ofthe wireless earpiece. The wireless earpiece may also include a numberof sensors measuring biometrics associated with the user. The wirelessearpiece may also include a transceiver communicating with at least awireless device. The logic engine executes a medical engine to receive arequest to be implemented by the wireless earpiece, executes a medicalengine on the wireless earpiece, retrieves information associated withthe biometrics from one or more medical databases accessible to thewireless earpiece, and implements an action to fulfill the requestutilizing the information through the medical engine.

One embodiment provides a system, method, and wireless earpieces forimplementing a medical engine. A first medical engine for a wirelessdevice is activated in response to receiving a request. A second medicalengine on the wireless earpieces is executed to retrieve informationassociated with the request. An action is implemented utilizing thewireless device to fulfill the request utilizing the information.Another embodiment provides wireless earpieces including a processor anda memory storing a set of instructions. The set of instructions areexecuted to perform the method described above.

Another embodiment provides a wireless earpiece. The wireless earpiecemay include a frame for fitting in an ear of a user. The wirelessearpiece may also include a logic engine controlling functionality ofthe wireless earpiece. The wireless earpiece may also include a numberof sensors measuring biometrics and actions associated with the user.The wireless earpiece may also include a transceiver communicating withat least a wireless device. The logic engine receives a request to beimplemented by the wireless earpiece, executes a medical engine on thewireless earpiece, retrieves the biometrics and the actions from thenumber of sensors to be utilized to respond to the request, andimplements an action to fulfill the request utilizing the biometrics andthe actions.

Another embodiment provides wireless earpieces. The wireless earpiecesinclude a processor and a memory storing a set of instructions. The setof instructions are executed to receive a request from a user throughthe plurality of sensors to be implemented by at least the logic engineof the wireless earpiece, execute a medical engine on the wirelessearpieces to retrieve user biometrics, and implement an action tofulfill the request utilizing the medical engine.

One embodiment provides a system, method, and wireless earpieces forimplementing a medical engine in response to user preferences. Userpreferences associated with a user of the wireless earpieces arereceived. Data and information about the user and an environment of theuser are captured by the wireless earpieces based on the userpreferences.

Another embodiment provides a wireless earpiece. The wireless earpiecemay include a frame for fitting in an ear of a user. The wirelessearpiece may also include a logic engine controlling functionality ofthe wireless earpiece. The wireless earpiece may also include a numberof sensors measuring data and information about the user and anenvironment of the user based on user preferences. The wireless earpiecemay also include a transceiver communicating with at least a wirelessdevice. The logic engine determines whether to provide automaticassistance to the user based on the user preferences utilizing a medicalengine executed by the logic engine, generates the automatic assistancethrough the medical engine utilizing the data and the information, andcommunicates the automatic assistance to the user through the medicalengine of the wireless earpieces.

Yet another embodiment provides wireless earpieces including a processorand a memory storing a set of instructions. The set of instructions areexecuted to receive user preferences associated with wireless earpieces,automatically capture data and information about a user and anenvironment of the user utilizing sensors of the wireless earpiecesbased on the user preferences, determine whether to provide automaticassistance to the user based on the user preferences utilizing themedical engine of the wireless earpieces, generate the automaticassistance through the medical engine of the wireless earpiecesutilizing the data and the information, and communicate the automaticassistance to the user through the medical engine of the wirelessearpieces.

According to another aspect, a method for implementing a medical engineutilizing a wireless earpiece worn by a health care provider during apatient encounter is provided. The method includes sensing voice audioof the health care provider using the wireless earpiece to provide afirst portion of contextual data, sensing audio associated with apatient of the health care provider using the wireless earpiece tofurther provide a second portion of the contextual data, generating aquery at a medical engine of the wireless earpiece using the contextualdata, retrieving information in response to the query from at least onemedical database, and presenting the information to the health careprovider at the wireless earpiece. The method may further includeacquiring a patient identifier to provide a third portion of contextualdata. The query may include a patient identifier. The at least onemedical database may include a medical database containing patientrecords for the patient. The method may further include notifying thehealth care provider about availability of the information prior topresenting the information to the health care provider. The method mayfurther include receiving a request from the health care providerthrough the wireless earpiece and wherein the query is based in part onthe request. The medical engine may be implemented independently by thewireless earpieces, and wherein at least one medical databases arestored on a memory of the wireless earpiece. The method may furtherinclude sensing physiological data of the patient using medicalequipment and receiving the physiological data at the wireless earpiece,wherein the physiological data provides an additional portion of thecontextual data.

According to another aspect, a method for implementing a medical engineutilizing wireless earpieces is provided. The method may includeproviding a set of wireless earpieces wherein at least one of thewireless earpieces comprises a frame for fitting in an ear of a healthcare provider, a plurality of sensors measuring biometrics and actionsassociated with the health care provider and a patient of the healthcare provider, a logic engine operatively connected to the plurality ofsensors and configured to execute a medical assistant, and a transceiveroperatively connected to the logic engine The method may further includecollecting contextual data from the set of wireless earpieces using theplurality of sensors and from one or more additional electronic devicesassociated with the health care provider, executing a medical engine onthe wireless earpieces to interpret the contextual data into a query,retrieving information associated with the query from one or moremedical databases accessible to the wireless earpieces, and generatingaudio at the set of wireless earpieces to convey the information to thehealth care provider. The contextual data may further include voiceaudio from a patient detected at one or more microphones of the wirelessearpieces. The method may further include making the health careprovider aware of the availability of the information and receivingpermission from the health care provider through the set of wirelessearpieces to convey the information to the health care provider via theaudio.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrated embodiments of the present invention are described in detailbelow with reference to the attached drawing figures, which areincorporated by reference herein, and where:

FIG. 1 is a pictorial representation of a communication system inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of wireless earpieces in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a pictorial representation of sensors of the wirelessearpieces in accordance with illustrative embodiments;

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a process for utilizing a medical engine forwireless earpieces in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a process for utilizing a medical engine forwireless earpieces and a wireless device in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a process for utilizing automaticallyimplementing a medical engine in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment;

FIG. 7 is a passive process for utilizing a medical engine in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment; and

FIG. 8 depicts a computing system in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

The illustrative embodiments provide a system, method, wirelessearpieces, and personal area network for providing a medical engine. Inone embodiment, the wireless earpieces may independently execute amedical engine available to the user with or without a connection toanother wireless device, such as a smart phone, tablet, or laptop. Inanother embodiment, the medical engine may be accessed through aseparate wireless device with the wireless earpieces acting as aninput/output device for providing voice, gesture, touch, or other inputto control, manage, or interact with the medical engine.

The medical engine may operate actively or passively to perform anynumber of tasks, features, and functions based on a user request, userpreferences, or so forth. The medical engine may represent hardware,software, firmware, or a combination thereof that may include systems ofthe wireless earpieces that may be utilized to implement the embodimentsherein described. The medical engine may also be an integrated part of avirtual reality, medical (e.g., laser, operating, patient interface,etc.) or augmented reality system.

In addition to the medical purposes and functionality, the medicalengine of the wireless earpieces may also be utilized to play music oraudio, track user biometrics, perform communications (e.g., two-way,alerts, etc.), provide feedback/input, or perform any number of othertasks. In one embodiment, the medical engine may be utilized to monitorone or more additional users that may be proximate the user wearing thewireless earpieces. The medical engine may manage execution of softwareor sets of instructions stored in an on-board memory of the wirelessearpieces to accomplish numerous tasks. The medical engine may also beutilized to control, communicate, manage, or interact with a number ofother computing, communications, or wearable devices, equipment,systems, or software applications, such as smart phones, medicalsoftware (e.g., patient data, clinical, surgical, diagnosis, etc.),laptops, personal computers, docketing systems, tablets, practicemanagement software, holographic displays, virtual reality systems,gaming devices, projection systems, vehicles, smart glasses, helmets,smart glass, watches or wrist bands, chest straps, implants, displays,clothing, or so forth.

In one embodiment, the medical engine of the wireless earpieces may beintegrated with, control, or otherwise communicate with a personal areanetwork. A personal area network is a network for data transmissionsamong devices, such as personal computing, communications, camera,vehicles, entertainment, and medical devices. The personal area networkmay utilize any number of wired, wireless, or hybrid configurations andmay be stationary or dynamic. For example, the personal area network mayutilize wireless network protocols or standards, such as INSTEON, IrDA,Wireless USB, near field magnetic induction (NFMI), Bluetooth, Z-Wave,ZigBee, Wi-Fi, ANT+ or other applicable radio frequency signals. In oneembodiment, the personal area network may move with the user.

Any number of conditions, factors, and so forth may be utilized todetermine a response or implementation of a command that is communicatedto one or more of the wireless earpieces. The medical engine may providea hands free way of receiving information (e.g., applicable to the user,user's environment, wireless earpieces, connected devices, etc.) andimplementing and controlling functions and features. The wirelessearpieces may utilize the medical engine to access a number of medicaldatabases. For example, the medical engine may include any number ofdatabases that may be accessed based on commands, keywords, phrases,user preferences, settings, or other information. In another example,the medical engine may utilize any number of virtual assistance toaccess medical databases that may be publicly available,subscription-based, privately accessible, or otherwise managed byindividuals, hospitals, pharmaceuticals, companies, nonprofits, or otherentities.

The wireless earpieces may be worn by medical professionals (e.g.,doctors, physician assistant, nurses, etc.), administrators, andpatients and may be configured to communicate directly, throughintermediary devices, systems or equipment, or through one or morenetworks. The wireless earpieces may include any number of sensors forreading user biometrics, such as pulse rate, blood pressure, bloodoxygenation, temperature, orientation, calories expended, blood or sweatchemical content, voice and audio output, impact levels, and orientation(e.g., body, head, etc.). The sensors may also determine the user'slocation, position, heart rate, voice stress levels, and so forth. Thesensors may also receive user input and convert the user input intocommands or selections made across the personal devices of the personalarea network. For example, the user input detected by the wirelessearpieces may include voice commands, head motions, finger taps, fingerswipes, motions or gestures, or other user inputs sensed by the wirelessearpieces. The user input may be received, parsed, and converted intocommands, queries, and requests associated with the input that may beutilized internally by the wireless earpieces or sent to one or moreexternal devices, such as a tablet computer, smart phone, laptop, or soforth. The wireless earpieces may perform sensor measurements for theuser to read any number of user biometrics. The user biometrics may beanalyzed including measuring deviations or changes of the sensormeasurements over time, identifying trends of the sensor measurements,and comparing the sensor measurements to control data for the user.

The wireless earpieces may also measure environmental conditions, suchas temperature, location, barometric pressure, humidity, radiation, windspeed, chemical content of the air, noise levels, and other applicableenvironmental data. The wireless earpieces may also communicate withexternal devices to receive additional sensor measurements. The wirelessearpieces may communicate with external devices to receive availableinformation, which may include information received through one or morenetworks, such as the Internet.

The medical engine of the wireless earpieces may be particularly adaptedto providing input for medical professionals, such as doctors, nurses,surgeons, transcriptionists, medical assistants, practice managers, andother parties that work in the medical field. The input may be providedin real-time through the wireless earpieces or may be sent to one ormore connected devices. The wireless earpieces may also be activated toperform the illustrative embodiments even when they are not worn by theuser. The wireless earpieces may also be worn by a patient or userrequiring medical information and actions.

FIG. 1 is a pictorial representation of a communications environment 100in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The wireless earpieces102 may be configured to communicate with each other and with one ormore wireless devices, such as a wireless device 104 or a personalcomputer 118 (as well as the associated software including operatingsystems, kernels, applications, and so forth). The wireless earpieces102 may be worn by a user 106 and are shown both as worn and separatelyfrom their positioning within the ears of the user 106 for purposes ofvisualization. A block diagram of the wireless earpieces 102 if furthershown in FIG. 2 to further illustrate components and operation of thewireless earpieces 102 including the medical engine.

In one embodiment, the wireless earpieces 102 includes a frame 108shaped to fit substantially within the ears of the user 106. The frame108 is a support structure that at least partially encloses and housesthe electronic components of the wireless earpieces 102. The frame 108may be composed of a single structure or multiple structures that areinterconnected. An exterior portion of the wireless earpieces 102 mayinclude a first set of sensors shown as infrared sensors 109. Theinfrared sensors 109 may include emitter and receivers that detects andmeasures infrared light radiating from objects within its field of view.The infrared sensors 109 may detect gestures, touches, or other userinput against an exterior portion of the wireless earpieces 102 that isvisible when worn by the user 106. The infrared sensors 109 may alsodetect infrared light or motion. The infrared sensors 109 may beutilized to determine whether the wireless earpieces 102 are being worn,moved, approached by a user, set aside, stored in a smart case, placedin a dark environment, or so forth. In one embodiment, the user 106 mayconfigure the wireless earpieces 102 for usage even when not worn, suchas when placed on a desk or table or positioned within a smart case thatcharges, secures, and protects the wireless earpieces 102 when not inuse.

The frame 108 defines an extension 110 configured to fit substantiallywithin the ear of the user 106. The extension 110 may include one ormore speakers or vibration components for interacting with the user 106.The extension 110 may be removable covered by one or more sleeves. Thesleeves may be changed to fit the size and shape of the user's ears. Thesleeves may come in various interchangeable sizes and may have extremelytight tolerances to fit the user 106 and one or more additional usersthat may utilize the wireless earpieces 102 during their expectedlifecycle. In another embodiment, the sleeves may be custom built tosupport the interference fit utilized by the wireless earpieces 102while also being comfortable while worn. The sleeves are shaped andconfigured to not cover various sensor devices of the wireless earpieces102. In other embodiments, the wireless earpieces 102 may be docked withother devices utilized or worn by the user 106, such as watches,glasses, headsets, jewelry, smart phones, personal computers, gamingdevices, or so forth.

In one embodiment, the frame 108 or the extension 110 (or other portionsof the wireless earpieces 102) may include sensors 112 for sensingpulse, blood oxygenation, temperature, voice characteristics, skinconduction, glucose levels, impacts, activity level, position, location,orientation, as well as any number of internal or external userbiometrics. In other embodiments, the sensors 112 may be positioned tocontact or be proximate the epithelium of the external auditory canal orauricular region of the user's ears when worn. For example, the sensors112 may represent various metallic sensor contacts, optical interfaces,or even micro-delivery systems for receiving, measuring, and deliveringinformation and signals. Small electrical charges or spectroscopyemissions (e.g., various light wavelengths) may be utilized by thesensors 112 to analyze the biometrics of the user 106 including pulse,blood pressure, skin conductivity, blood analysis, sweat levels, and soforth. In one embodiment, the sensors 112 may include optical sensorsthat may emit and measure reflected light within the ears of the user106 to measure any number of biometrics. The optical sensors may also beutilized as a second set of sensors to determine when the wirelessearpieces 102 are in use, stored, charging, or otherwise positioned. Thesensors 112 may include an array of components.

The sensors 112 may be utilized to provide relevant information that maybe communicated through the medical engine. As described, the sensors112 may include one or more microphones that may be integrated with theframe 108 or the extension of the wireless earpieces 102. For example,an external microphone may sense environmental noises as well as theuser's voice as communicated through the air of the communicationsenvironment 100. The external microphones may sense additional user'svoices to perform recordings, analysis, actions, or otherwise facilitatethe activities of the user 106. An ear-bone or internal microphone maysense vibrations or sound waves communicated through the head of theuser 102 (e.g., bone conduction, etc.).

In some applications, temporary adhesives or securing mechanisms (e.g.,clamps, straps, lanyards, extenders, etc.) may be utilized to ensurethat the wireless earpieces 102 remain in the ears of the user 106 evenduring the most rigorous or physical activities or to ensure that ifthey do fall out they are not lost or broken. For example, the wirelessearpieces 102 may be utilized during marathons, swimming, team sports,biking, hiking, parachuting, or so forth. In one embodiment, miniaturestraps may attach to the wireless earpieces 102 with a clip on the strapsecuring the wireless earpieces to the clothes, hair, or body of theuser. The wireless earpieces 102 may be configured to play music oraudio, receive and make phone calls or other communications, determineambient environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, altitude, location,speed, heading, etc.), read user biometrics (e.g., heart rate, motion,temperature, sleep, blood oxygenation, voice output, calories burned,forces experienced, etc.), and receive user input, feedback, orinstructions. The wireless earpieces 102 may also execute any number ofapplications to perform specific purposes. The wireless earpieces 102may be utilized with any number of automatic assistants, such as Siri,Cortana, Alexa, Google, Watson, or other smart assistants/artificialintelligence systems.

The communications environment 100 may further include the personalcomputer 118. The personal computer 118 may communicate with one or morewired or wireless networks, such as a network 120. The personal computer118 may represent any number of devices, systems, equipment, orcomponents, such as a laptop, server, tablet, transcription system,security system, gaming device, virtual/augmented reality system, or soforth. The personal computer 118 may communicate utilizing any number ofstandards, protocols, or processes. For example, the personal computer118 may utilize a wired or wireless connection to communicate with thewireless earpieces 102, the wireless device 104, or other electronicdevices. The personal computer 118 may utilize any number of memories ordatabases to store or synchronize biometric information associated withthe user 106, data, passwords, or media content. The personal computer118 may also include any number of medical databases, guides, abstracts,journals, services, research and development groups, digitalcompilations and files, government agencies, and networks such asMedline, CINAHL, DynaMed, COSS, Gideon, SPORTDiscuss, NRS, AMED,HealthWatch, Health Source, Global Health Archive, PASCAL, TCIA, CentralCardiac Audit Database, ClinicalKey, DECIPHER, Diseases Database,EMedicine, EudraPharm, EUROCAT, FREIDA Online, GeneReviews, InfluenzaResearch Database, MEDLINE, OneKey, OpenPhacts, Pediatric Oncall,Physician Data Query, Point of care medical information summary, PubMed,QResearch, Redcap, Virtual Health Library, Violin vaccine database,Healthfinder, Medem Medical Library, WebMD, and so forth, that may beaccessed by the medical engine of the wireless earpieces 102. Thewireless earpieces 102 may store all or portions of these databases,logic, services, and resources that may be updated regularly as notedabove.

The wireless earpieces 102 may determine their position with respect toeach other as well as the wireless device 104 and the personal computer118. For example, position information for the wireless earpieces 102and the wireless device 104 may determine proximity of the devices inthe communications environment 100. For example, global positioninginformation or signal strength/activity may be utilized to determineproximity and distance of the devices to each other in thecommunications environment 100. In one embodiment, the distanceinformation may be utilized to determine whether biometric analysis maybe displayed to a user. For example, the wireless earpieces 102 may berequired to be within four feet of the wireless device 104 and thepersonal computer 118 in order to display biometric readings or receiveuser input. The transmission power or amplification of received signalsmay also be varied based on the proximity of the devices in thecommunications environment 100.

In one embodiment, the wireless earpieces 102 and the correspondingsensors 112 (whether internal or external) may be configured to take anumber of measurements or log information and activities during normalusage. This information, data, values, and determinations may bereported to the user or otherwise utilized as part of the medicalengine. The sensor measurements may be utilized to extrapolate othermeasurements, factors, or conditions applicable to the user 106 or thecommunications environment 100. For example, the sensors 112 may monitorthe user's usage patterns or light sensed in the communicationsenvironment 100 to enter a full power mode in a timely manner. The user106 or another party may configure the wireless earpieces 102 directlyor through a connected device and app (e.g., mobile app with a graphicaluser interface) to set power settings (e.g., preferences, conditions,parameters, settings, factors, etc.) or to store or share biometricinformation, audio, and other data. In one embodiment, the user mayestablish the light conditions or motion that may activate the fullpower mode or that may keep the wireless earpieces 102 in a sleep or lowpower mode. As a result, the user 106 may configure the wirelessearpieces 102 to maximize the battery life based on motion, lightingconditions, and other factors established for the user. For example, theuser 106 may set the wireless earpieces 102 to enter a full power modeonly if positioned within the ears of the user 106 within ten seconds ofbeing moved, otherwise the wireless earpieces 102 remain in a low powermode to preserve battery life. This setting may be particularly usefulif the wireless earpieces 102 are periodically moved or jostled withoutbeing inserted into the ears of the user 106. The wireless earpieces 102may also be utilized to perform audio or light monitoring of a specifiedarea.

The user 106 or another party may also utilize the wireless device 104to associate user information and conditions with the user preferences.For example, an application executed by the wireless device 104 may beutilized to specify the conditions that may “wake up” the wirelessearpieces 102 to automatically or manually communicate information,warnings, data, or status information to the user. In addition, theenabled functions (e.g., sensors, transceivers, vibration alerts,speakers, lights, etc.) may be selectively activated based on the userpreferences as set by default, by the user, or based on historicalinformation. In another embodiment, the wireless earpieces 102 may beadjusted or trained over time to become even more accurate in adjustingto medical needs, activities, habits, requirements, requests,activations, or other processes or functions performed by the medicalengine. The wireless earpieces 102 may utilize historical information togenerate default values, baselines, thresholds, policies, or settingsfor determining when and how the medical engine performs variouscommunications, actions, and processes. As a result, the wirelessearpieces 102 may effectively manage the automatic and manuallyperformed processed of the wireless earpieces based on automaticdetection of events and conditions (e.g., light, motion, user sensorreadings, etc.) and user specified settings.

The wireless earpieces 102 may include any number of sensors 112 andlogic for measuring and determining user biometrics, such as pulse rate,skin conduction, blood oxygenation, temperature, calories expended,blood or excretion chemistry, voice and audio output (e.g., stresslevel, amplitude, frequency, etc.), position, and orientation (e.g.,body, head, etc.). The sensors 112 may also determine the user'slocation, position, velocity, impact levels, and so forth. Any of thesensors 112 may be utilized to detect or confirm light, motion, or otherparameters that may affect how the wireless earpieces 102 manage,utilize, and initialize the medical engine. The sensors 112 may alsoreceive user input and convert the user input into commands orselections made across the personal devices of the personal areanetwork. For example, the user input detected by the wireless earpieces102 may include voice commands, head motions, finger taps, fingerswipes, motions or gestures, or other user inputs sensed by the wirelessearpieces. The user input may be determined by the wireless earpieces102 and converted into authorization commands that may be sent to one ormore external devices, such as the wireless device 104, the personalcomputer 118, a tablet computer, or so forth. For example, the user 106may create a specific head motion and voice command that when detectedby the wireless earpieces 102 are utilized to send a request to themedical engine (implemented by the wireless earpiece or wirelessearpieces 102/wireless device 104) to perform actions, such as providemedical definitions, record conversations or environmental noise, searchprecedent for a cited case, provide stress analysis of other user'svoices, and so forth. Any number of actions may also be implemented bythe medical engine in response to specified user input.

The sensors 112 may make all of the measurements with regard to the user106 and communications environment 100 or may communicate with anynumber of other sensory devices, components, or systems in thecommunications environment 100. In one embodiment, the communicationsenvironment 100 may represent all or a portion of a personal areanetwork. The wireless earpieces 102 may be utilized to control,communicate, manage, or interact with a number of other wearable devicesor electronics, such as smart glasses, helmets, smart glass, watches orwrist bands, other wireless earpieces, chest straps, implants, displays,clothing, or so forth. The wireless earpieces 102 may also communicatewith cameras, microphones, or other specialized or custom systems,equipment, components, software, or devices. A personal area network isa network for data transmissions among devices, components, equipment,and systems, such as personal computers, communications devices,cameras, vehicles, entertainment/media devices, and medical devices. Thepersonal area network may utilize any number of wired, wireless, orhybrid configurations and may be stationary or dynamic. For example, thepersonal area network may utilize wireless network protocols orstandards, such as INSTEON, IrDA, Wireless USB, Bluetooth, Z-Wave,ZigBee, Wi-Fi, ANT+ or other applicable radio frequency signals. In oneembodiment, the personal area network may move with the user 106.

In other embodiments, the communications environment 100 may include anynumber of devices, components, or so forth that may communicate witheach other directly or indirectly through a wireless (or wired)connection, signal, or link. The communications environment 100 mayinclude one or more networks and network components and devicesrepresented by the network 120, such as routers, servers, signalextenders, intelligent network devices, computing devices, or so forth.In one embodiment, the network 120 of the communications environment 100represents a personal area network as previously disclosed. The medicalengine herein described may also be utilized for any number of devicesin the communications environment 100 with commands or communicationsbeing sent to and from the wireless earpieces 102, wireless device 104,personal computer 118 or other devices of the communications environment100. Any of the devices in the communications environment 100 mayinclude medical databases that may be accessed by the medical engine ofthe wireless earpieces 102 to perform the features, processes, method,and functionality as are herein described. The medical databases may beupdated or replaced as needed.

Communications within the communications environment 100 may occurthrough the network 120 or a Wi-Fi network or may occur directly betweendevices, such as the wireless earpieces 102 and the wireless device 104.The network 120 may communicate with or include a wireless network, suchas a Wi-Fi, cellular (e.g., 3G, 4G, 5G, PCS, GSM, etc.), Bluetooth, orother short range or long range radio frequency networks, signals,connections, or links. The network 120 may also include or communicatewith any number of hard wired networks, such as local area networks,coaxial networks, fiber-optic networks, network adapters, or so forth.Communications within the communications environment 100 may be operatedby one or more users, service providers, or network providers.

The wireless earpieces 102 may play, display, communicate, or utilizeany number of alerts or communications to indicate that the actions,activities, communications, mode, or status are use or being implementedby the medical engine. For example, one or more alerts may indicate whenmedical engine actions automatically or manually selected by the userare in process, authorized, and/or changing with specific tones, verbalacknowledgements, tactile feedback, or other forms of communicatedmessages. For example, an audible alert and LED flash may be utilizedeach time the wireless earpieces 102 activate the medical engine toreceive user input. Verbal or audio acknowledgements, answers, andactions utilized by the wireless earpieces 102 are particularlyeffective because of user familiarity with such devices in standardsmart phone and personal computers. The corresponding alert may also becommunicated to the user 106, the wireless device 104, and the personalcomputer 118. In one embodiment, alerts or indicators may be utilized toindicate that information or details are available to a user. Forexample, an audible alert, such as a beep, and a tactile alert, such asa single vibration, may indicate that the wireless earpieces have foundmedical analysis that may be presented audibly to the user if selected.

In other embodiments, the wireless earpieces 102 may also vibrate,flash, play a tone or other sound, or give other indications of theactions, status, or process of the medical engine. The wirelessearpieces 102 may also communicate an alert to the wireless device 104that shows up as a notification, message, or other indicator indicatingchanges in status, actions, commands, or so forth.

The wireless earpieces 102 as well as the wireless device 104 mayinclude logic for automatically implementing the medical engine inresponse to motion, light, audio, user activities, user biometricstatus, user location, user orientation/position, historicalactivity/requests, or various other conditions and factors of thecommunications environment 100. The medical engine may be activated toperform a specified activity or to “listen” or be prepared to “receive”user input, feedback, or commands for implementation by the medicalengine. The medical engine may also go into a recording or logging modewhere all content or verbal communications are recorded for subsequentanalysis, review, playback, or so forth.

The wireless device 104 may represent any number of wireless or wiredelectronic communications or computing devices, such as smart phones,laptops, desktop computers, control systems, tablets, transcriptionsystems, security systems, displays, gaming devices, music players,personal digital assistants, vehicle systems, or so forth as well as theassociated software (e.g., operating systems, kernels, applications,etc.). The wireless device 104 may communicate utilizing any number ofwireless connections, standards, or protocols (e.g., near fieldcommunications, NFMI, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, wireless Ethernet, etc.). Forexample, the wireless device 104 may be a touch screen cellular phonethat communicates with the wireless earpieces 102 utilizing Bluetoothcommunications. The wireless device 104 may implement and utilize anynumber of operating systems, kernels, instructions, or applications thatmay make use of the available sensor data sent from the wirelessearpieces 102. For example, the wireless device 104 may represent anynumber of android, iOS, Windows, open platforms, or other systems anddevices. Similarly, the wireless device 104 or the wireless earpieces102 may execute any number of applications that utilize the user input,proximity data, biometric data, and other feedback from the wirelessearpieces 102 to initiate, authorize, or process medical engineprocesses and perform the associated tasks. In one embodiment, thewireless earpieces 102 and the wireless device 104 may both executemedical engines that may operate independently or jointly to perform theprocesses herein described utilizing one or more medical databases thatare stored locally or accessed through the personal area network.

As noted, the layout of the internal components of the wirelessearpieces 102 and the limited space available for a product of limitedsize may affect where the sensors 112 may be positioned. The positionsof the sensors 112 within each of the wireless earpieces 102 may varybased on the model, version, and iteration of the wireless earpiecedesign and manufacturing process.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a wireless earpiece system 200 inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment. As previously noted, thewireless earpieces 202 may be referred to or described herein as a pair(wireless earpieces) or singularly (wireless earpiece). The descriptionmay also refer to components and functionality of each of the wirelessearpieces 202 collectively or individually. In one embodiment, thewireless earpiece system 200 may enhance communications andfunctionality of the wireless earpieces 202. In one embodiment, thewireless earpieces 202 may operate a medical engine independently. Inanother embodiment, the wireless earpieces 202 and a computing device204 may implement a medical engine jointly or as separate instances thatwork together as part of the wireless earpiece system 200.

As shown, the wireless earpieces 202 may be wirelessly linked to thecomputing device 204. For example, the computing device 204 mayrepresent a wireless tablet computer. The computing device 204 may alsorepresent a transcription system, security system, gaming device,microphone/speaker array, cell phone, vehicle system (e.g., GPS,speedometer, pedometer, entertainment system, etc.), media device, smartwatch, laptop, smart glass, or other electronic devices. User input andcommands may be received from either the wireless earpieces 202 or thecomputing device 204 for implementation on either of the devices of thewireless earpiece system 200 (or other externally connected devices). Inone embodiment, the wireless earpieces 202 and the computing device 204may be utilized in a location 230. The location 230 may represent anynumber of locations, buildings, facilities, or environments. Forexample, the location 230 may represent a conference room as shown. Inother embodiments, the location 230 may represent a court room, office,prison, client home, building, meeting, retail location, or so forth.Any number of activities may be performed at the location 230 includingmeetings, surgeries, treatments, consultations, contract negotiations,hearings, executive meetings, councils, interviews, trainings, classes,and so forth.

In some embodiments, the computing device 204 may act as a logging toolfor receiving information, data, or measurements made by the wirelessearpieces 202. For example, the computing device 204 may download datafrom the wireless earpieces 202 in real-time. As a result, the computingdevice 204 may be utilized to store, display, and synchronize data forthe wireless earpieces 202. For example, the computing device 204 maystore conversations, key words, conversation statistics, questionsposed, designated information, and other information. In anotherexample, the computing device 204 may display pulse, proximity,location, oxygenation, distance, calories burned, and so forth asmeasured by the wireless earpieces 202. The computing device 204 may beconfigured to receive and display an interface, selection elements, andalerts that indicate conditions to implement the medical engine. Forexample, the wireless earpieces 202 may utilize factors, such askeywords (e.g., patient, treatment, pain medication, prescription,surgery, etc.), changes in motion or light, distance thresholds betweenthe wireless earpieces 202 and/or computing device 204, signal activity,user orientation, user speed, user location, environmental factors(e.g., temperature, humidity, noise levels, proximity to other users,etc.) or other automatically determined or user specified measurements,factors, conditions, or parameters to implement various features,functions, and commands.

The computing device 204 may also include a number of optical sensors,touch sensors, microphones, and other measurement devices that mayprovide feedback or measurements that the wireless earpieces 202 mayutilize to determine an appropriate mode, settings, or enabledfunctionality to be utilized by the medical engine. The wirelessearpieces 202 and the computing device 204 may have any number ofelectrical configurations, shapes, and colors and may include variouscircuitry, connections, and other components.

In one embodiment, the wireless earpieces 202 may include a battery 208,a logic engine 210, a memory 212, a user interface 214, a physicalinterface 215, a transceiver 216, sensors 217, a medical engine 218, andmedical databases 220. The computing device 204 may have any number ofconfigurations and include components and features similar to thewireless earpieces 202 as are known in the art. The medical engine 218may be implemented as part of the logic engine 210, user interface, orother hardware, software, or firmware of the wireless earpieces and/orcomputing device 204. Similarly, the medical databases 220 may be storedby the medical engine 218 or in the memory 212. The computing device 204may similarly store or access a number of medical databases.

The battery 208 is a power storage device configured to power thewireless earpieces 202. In other embodiments, the battery 208 mayrepresent a fuel cell, thermal electric generator, piezo electriccharger, solar charger, ultra-capacitor, or other existing or developingpower storage technologies. The logic engine 210 preserves the capacityof the battery 208 by reducing unnecessary utilization of the wirelessearpieces 202 in a full-power mode when there is little or no benefit tothe user (e.g., the wireless earpieces 202 are sitting on a table ortemporarily lost). In one embodiment, the battery 208 or power of thewireless earpieces are preserved for when being worn or operated by theuser. As a result, user satisfaction with the wireless earpieces 202 isimproved and the user may be able to set the wireless earpieces 202aside at any moment knowing that battery life is automatically preservedby the logic engine 210 and functionality of the wireless earpieces 202.In another embodiment, the logic engine 210 may receive user input fromthe user through the user interface 214 to operate even when thewireless earpieces 202 are not worn by a user (e.g., charging in thesmart case, set upon a table, etc.). For example, the wireless earpieces202 may be utilized to record and transcribe discussions between anattorney and client to send a client an outline of the discussion andrelevant notes.

The logic engine 210 is the logic that controls the operation andfunctionality of the wireless earpieces 202. The logic engine 210 mayinclude circuitry, chips, and other digital logic. The logic engine 210may also include programs, scripts, and instructions that may beimplemented to operate the logic engine 210. The logic engine 210 mayrepresent hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. Inone embodiment, the logic engine 210 may include one or more processors.The logic engine 210 may also represent an application specificintegrated circuit (ASIC) or field programmable gate array (FPGA). Inone embodiment, the logic engine 210 may execute instructions to managethe medical engine 218 including interactions with the components of thewireless earpieces 202, such as the user interface 214 and sensors 217.

The logic engine 210 may utilize measurements from two or more of thesensors 217 to determine whether the medical engine 218 is beingrequested or is otherwise needed. The logic engine 210 may controlactions implemented the medical engine 218 in response to any number ofmeasurements from the sensors 217, the transceiver 216, the userinterface 214, or the physical interface 215 as well as user preferences222 that may be user entered or default preferences. For example, thelogic engine 210 may initialize or otherwise use the medical engine 218in response to any number of factors, conditions, parameters,measurements, data, values, or other information specified within thelogic engine 210 or by the user preferences 222. For example, the userpreferences 222 may specify that in response to one or more internal orexternal microphones detecting a keyword (e.g., client name, medicalterm, passcode, etc.) the medical engine may be activated to perform anynumber of actions or activities.

The logic engine 210 may also determine whether the wireless earpieces202 are actively performing any user-requested functions that mayrequire that activation of the medical engine 218 or that the medicalengine 218 be ready to receive a request. For example, the logic enginemay determine whether music is being played, communications beingreceived, processed, or sent, noise-cancellation is being performed andso forth. Utilizing the user preferences, the logic engine 210 mayexecute instructions to initiate and implement the medical engine 218.If user input, feedback, or communications are detected or received, thelogic engine 210 may initiate the medical engine 218 to perform a taskassociated with the input. For example, the medical engine 218 mayimplement wireless earpieces 202 to answer questions, provide userbiometrics, answer activity related questions (e.g., when is my nexthearing, how many times did I say mediation during my last conversation,what address and floor is my meeting at, etc.) manage features,functions, or components, answer general questions, and so forth. Thewireless earpieces 202 may be configured to work together or completelyindependently based on the needs of the user. For example, the wirelessearpieces 202 may be used by two different users at one time to performthe illustrative embodiments.

The logic engine 210 may also process user input to determine commandsimplemented by the wireless earpieces 202 or sent to the computingdevice 204 through the transceiver 216. Specific actions may beassociated with user input (e.g., voice, tactile, orientation, motion,gesture, etc.). For example, the logic engine 210 may implement a macroallowing the user to associate frequently performed actions withspecific commands/input implemented by the medical engine 218. Forexample, in response to a user nodding her head two times, the wirelessearpieces may automatically record audible content for 30 minutes (thesame signal may be utilized to end the recording). In another example,the wireless earpieces may be tapped twice so that the next spoken termmay be retrieved from medical dictionaries. In another example, the usermay speak commands, such as “newest research for Alzheimers” to get themost recent medical precedent relevant to an applicable patient. Theabstract or a summary of the retrieved medical updates may be playedaudibly through the wireless earpieces 202 or communicated to thecomputing device 204. In another example, a user may swipe up againstthe external surface of the wireless earpieces to activate atranscription process of the wireless earpieces 202 or the computingdevice 204 with the wireless earpieces receiving the verbalcommunications from the user.

In one embodiment, a processor included in the logic engine 210 iscircuitry or logic enabled to control execution of a set ofinstructions. The processor may be one or more microprocessors, digitalsignal processors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC),central processing units, or other devices suitable for controlling anelectronic device including one or more hardware and software elements,executing software, instructions, programs, and applications, convertingand processing signals and information, and performing other relatedtasks.

The memory 212 is a hardware element, device, or recording mediaconfigured to store data or instructions for subsequent retrieval oraccess at a later time. The memory 212 may represent static or dynamicmemory. The memory 212 may include a hard disk, random access memory,cache, removable media drive, mass storage, or configuration suitable asstorage for data, instructions, and information. In one embodiment, thememory 212 and the logic engine 210 may be integrated. The memory mayuse any type of volatile or non-volatile storage techniques and mediums.The memory 212 may store information related to the status of a user,wireless earpieces 202, computing device 204, and other peripherals,such as a wireless device, smart glasses, a smart watch, a smart casefor the wireless earpieces 202, a wearable device, and so forth. In oneembodiment, the memory 212 may display instructions, programs, drivers,or an operating system for controlling the user interface 214 includingone or more LEDs or other light emitting components, speakers, tactilegenerators (e.g., vibrator), and so forth. The memory 212 may also storethresholds, conditions, signal or processing activity, proximity data,and so forth.

The transceiver 216 is a component comprising both a transmitter andreceiver which may be combined and share common circuitry on a singlehousing. The transceiver 216 may communicate utilizing Bluetooth, Wi-Fi,ZigBee, Ant+, near field communications, wireless USB, infrared, mobilebody area networks, ultra-wideband communications, cellular (e.g., 3G,4G, 5G, PCS, GSM, etc.), infrared, or other suitable radio frequencystandards, networks, protocols, or communications. The transceiver 216may also be a hybrid or multi-mode transceiver that supports a number ofdifferent communications. For example, the transceiver 216 maycommunicate with the computing device 204 or other systems utilizingwired interfaces (e.g., wires, traces, etc.), NFC, or Bluetoothcommunications as well as with the other wireless earpiece utilizingNFMI. The transceiver 216 may also detect amplitudes and signal strengthto infer distance between the wireless earpieces 202 themselves as wellas the computing device 204.

The components of the wireless earpieces 202 may be electricallyconnected utilizing any number of wires, contact points, leads, busses,wireless interfaces, or so forth. In addition, the wireless earpieces202 may include any number of computing and communications components,devices or elements which may include busses, motherboards, printedcircuit boards, circuits, chips, sensors, ports, interfaces, cards,converters, adapters, connections, transceivers, displays, antennas, andother similar components. The physical interface 215 is hardwareinterface of the wireless earpieces 202 for connecting and communicatingwith the computing device 204 or other electrical components, devices,or systems.

The physical interface 215 may include any number of pins, arms, orconnectors for electrically interfacing with the contacts or otherinterface components of external devices or other charging orsynchronization devices. For example, the physical interface 215 may bea micro USB port. In one embodiment, the physical interface 215 is amagnetic interface that automatically couples to contacts or aninterface of the computing device 204. In another embodiment, thephysical interface 215 may include a wireless inductor for charging thewireless earpieces 202 without a physical connection to a chargingdevice. The physical interface 215 may allow the wireless earpieces 202to be utilized when not worn as a remote microphone and sensor system(e.g., seismometer, thermometer, light detection unit, motion detector,audio recorder, etc.). For example, measurements, such as noise levels,temperature, movement, and so forth may be detected by the wirelessearpieces even when not worn. In another example, the wireless earpieces202 may be utilized as a temporary security system recording motion andaudio detected in an associated location. The wireless earpieces 202 maybe utilized as a pair, independently, or even when stored in a smartcase. Each of the wireless earpieces 202 may provide distinct sensormeasurements as needed.

The user interface 214 is a hardware interface for receiving commands,instructions, or input through the touch (haptics) of the user, voicecommands, or predefined motions. The user interface 214 may furtherinclude any number of software and firmware components for interfacingwith the user. In one embodiment, the medical engine 218 may beintegrated with the user interface 214. The user interface 214 may beutilized to manage and otherwise control the other functions of thewireless earpieces 202. The user interface 214 may include the LEDarray, one or more touch sensitive buttons or portions, a miniaturescreen or display, or other input/output components (e.g., the userinterface 214 may interact with the sensors 217 extensively). The userinterface 214 may be controlled by the user or based on commandsreceived from the computing device 204 or a linked wireless device. Forexample, the user may turn on, reactivate, or provide feedback for themedical engine 218 or other features, functions, and components of thewireless earpieces 202 utilizing the user interface 214.

In one embodiment, the user may provide user input for the medicalengine 218 by tapping the user interface 214 once, twice, three times,or any number of times. Similarly, a swiping motion may be utilizedacross or in front of the user interface 214 (e.g., the exterior surfaceof the wireless earpieces 202) to implement a predefined action. Swipingmotions in any number of directions or gestures may be associated withspecific medical engine 218 controlled activities or actions, such asactivate the medical engine 218, listen for commands, record audio,retrieve definitions, find surgery calendar items, enable dictation andtranscription, schedule meetings, retrieve definitions, research,treatment options, measure voice stress of participants in aconversation, and so forth. The user interface 214 may utilize themedical databases to retrieve applicable information, systems, data, andapplications.

The swiping motions may also be utilized to control actions andfunctionality of the computing device 204 or other external devices(e.g., smart television, camera array, smart watch, etc.). The user mayalso provide user input by moving his head in a particular direction ormotion or based on the user's position or location. For example, theuser may utilize voice commands, head gestures, or touch commands tochange the processes implemented by the medical engine 218 as well asthe content displayed by the computing device 204. The user interface214 may also provide a software interface including any number of icons,soft buttons, windows, links, graphical display elements, and so forth.

In one embodiment, the sensors 217 may be integrated with the userinterface 214 to detect or measure the user input. For example, infraredsensors positioned against an outer surface of the wireless earpieces202 may detect touches, gestures, or other input as part of a touch orgesture sensitive portion of the user interface 214. The outer orexterior surface of the user interface 214 may correspond to a portionof the wireless earpieces 202 accessible to the user when the wirelessearpieces are worn within the ears of the user.

In addition, the sensors 217 may include pulse oximeters,accelerometers, thermometers, barometers, radiation detectors,gyroscopes, magnetometers, global positioning systems, beacon detectors,inertial sensors, photo detectors, miniature cameras, and other similarinstruments for detecting user biometrics, environmental conditions,location, utilization, orientation, motion, and so forth. The sensors217 may provide measurements or data that may be utilized to select,activate, or otherwise utilize the medical engine 218. Likewise, thesensors 217 may be utilized to awake, activate, initiate, or otherwiseimplement actions and processes utilizing conditions, parameters,values, or other data within the user preferences 222. For example, theoptical biosensors within the sensors 217 may determine whether thewireless earpieces 202 are being worn and when a selected gestureactivating the medical engine 218 to look up facts associated withanother user's verbal output is provided by the user.

The computing device 204 may include components similar in structure andfunctionality to those shown for the wireless earpieces 202. Thecomputing device may include any number of processors, batteries,memories, busses, motherboards, chips, transceivers, peripherals,sensors, displays, cards, ports, adapters, interconnects, and so forth.In one embodiment, the computing device 204 may include one or moreprocessors and memories for storing instructions. The instructions maybe executed as part of an operating system, application, browser, or soforth to implement the features herein described. For example,docketing, accounting, case tracking, human resource, documentmanagement, email, calendaring, education, or other software andapplications may be executed by the computing device 204 and/or thewireless earpieces 202.

In one embodiment, the wireless earpieces 202 may be magnetically orphysically coupled to the computing device 204 to be recharged orsynchronized or to be stored. In one embodiment, the computing device204 may include a virtual assistant or medical engine that is compatiblewith the medical engine 218. As a result, the separate instances mayfunction as a single medical engine, medical assistant, or virtualassistant to enhance functionality. In addition, the seamlessintegration may appear to the user as a single medical engine (eventhough multiple instances may be involved across a number of differentwireless and wired electronic devices). In another embodiment, thewireless earpieces 202 and computing device 204 may still communicateeffectively to perform the methods and processes herein described evenif the medical engine for the computing device 204 is different from themedical engine 218. For example, distinct medical engines may stillcommunicate and interact based on developing interfaces, protocols, orstandards from different service providers, manufacturers, anddevelopers. For example, the wireless earpieces 202 or the computingdevice 204 may utilize data mashup or access technologies to interfacewith 3rd party web services, such as Google, Microsoft, Facebook, Yelp,Twitter, WebMD, and others to perform actions, search requests, look upinformation, question answering, and other relevant services. Thecomputing device 204 may include or access local or network availablemedical databases, services, or systems. The medical engine 218 may alsotransform output from 3rd party web services back into natural language(e.g., the patient is ineligible for this surgery based on these twopreexisting medical conditions“, or based on the traffic report “youneed to leave for your surgery right now to be on time.”) The medicalengine 218 of the wireless earpieces 204 or of the computing device 204may also utilize text-to-speech (TTS) technologies or logic to transformnatural language or to parse text, information, values, or data as isherein described. The medical engine 218 may also perform languagetranslation in real-time eliminating the need for a translator forsimple or routine conversations. The language or speech detected by oneor more microphones of the wireless earpieces 202 may be converted intothe natural language of the user of the wireless earpieces 202.

The computing device 204 may also execute a medical engine (not shown)that may utilize information, data, and resources from the wirelessearpieces 202 and medical engine 218 to implement user requestedactions. The computing device 204 may be utilized to adjust the userpreferences 222 including settings, thresholds, activities, conditions,environmental factors, and so forth utilized by the medical engines ofboth the wireless earpieces 202 and the computing device 204. Forexample, the computing device 204 may utilize a graphical user interfaceavailable through a mobile application that allows the user to moreeasily specify any number of conditions, values, measurements,parameters, and factors that are utilized as part of the userpreferences 222 to control or manage the medical engine 218.

In another embodiment, the computing device 204 may also include sensorsfor detecting the location, orientation, and proximity of the wirelessearpieces 202 to the computing device 204. The wireless earpieces 202may turn off communications to the computing device 204 in response tolosing a status or heart beat connection to preserve battery life andmay only periodically search for a connection, link, or signal to thecomputing device 204. The wireless earpieces 202 may also turn offcomponents, enter a low power or sleep mode, or otherwise preservebattery life in response to not detecting interaction from the user fora time period, not detecting the presence of the user (e.g., touch,light, conductivity, motion, etc.), or so forth.

As originally packaged, the wireless earpieces 202 and the computingdevice 204 may include peripheral devices such as charging cords, poweradapters, inductive charging adapters, solar cells, batteries, lanyards,additional light arrays, speakers, smart case covers, transceivers(e.g., Wi-Fi, cellular, etc.), or so forth. In one embodiment, thewireless earpieces 202 may include a smart case (not shown). The smartcase may include an interface for charging the wireless earpieces 202from an internal battery as well as through a plugged connection. Thesmart case may also utilize the interface or a wireless transceiver tolog utilization, audio, motion activity, biometric information of theuser, and other information and data. For example, the smart case mayinclude a non-volatile memory for storing, archiving, synchronizing, orupdating information, data, medical databases 220, user preferences 222,or other applicable information.

FIG. 3 is a pictorial representation of some of the sensors 301 of thewireless earpieces 302 in accordance with illustrative embodiments. Aspreviously noted, the wireless earpieces 302 may include any number ofinternal or external sensors. In one embodiment, the sensors 301 may beutilized to determine whether the medical engine/assistant is activated,utilized, or listening for user input. Similarly, any number of othercomponents or features of the wireless earpieces 302 may be managedbased on the measurements made by the sensors 301 to preserve resources(e.g., battery life, processing power, etc.). The sensors 301 may makeindependent measurements or combined measurements utilizing the sensoryfunctionality of each of the sensors 301 to measure, confirm, or verifysensor measurements.

In one embodiment, the sensors 301 may include optical sensors 304,contact sensors 306, infrared sensors 308, and microphones 310. Theoptical sensors 304 may generate an optical signal that is communicatedto the ear (or other body part) of the user and reflected back. Thereflected optical signal may be analyzed to determine blood pressure,pulse rate, pulse oximetry, vibrations, blood chemistry, and otherinformation about the user. The optical sensors 304 may include anynumber of sources for outputting various wavelengths of electromagneticradiation and visible light. Thus, the wireless earpieces 302 mayutilize spectroscopy as it is known in the art and developing todetermine any number of user biometrics.

The optical sensors 304 may also be configured to detect ambient lightproximate the wireless earpieces 302. For example, the optical sensors304 may detect light and light changes in an environment of the wirelessearpieces 302, such as in a room where the wireless earpieces 302 arelocated. The optical sensors 304 may be configured to detect any numberof wavelengths including visible light that may be relevant to lightchanges, approaching users or devices, and so forth.

In another embodiment, the contact sensors 306 may be utilized todetermine that the wireless earpieces 302 are positioned within the earsof the user. For example, conductivity of skin or tissue within theuser's ear may be utilized to determine that the wireless earpieces arebeing worn. In other embodiments, the contact sensors 306 may includepressure switches, toggles, or other mechanical detection components fordetermining that the wireless earpieces 302 are being worn. The contactsensors 306 may measure or provide additional data points and analysisthat may indicate the biometric information of the user. The contactsensors 306 may also be utilized to apply electrical, vibrational,motion, or other input, impulses, or signals to the skin of the user.

The wireless earpieces 302 may also include infrared sensors 308. Theinfrared sensors 308 may be utilized to detect touch, contact, gestures,or other user input. The infrared sensors 308 may detect infraredwavelengths and signals. In another embodiment, the infrared sensors 308may detect visible light or other wavelengths as well. The infraredsensors 308 may be configured to detect light or motion or changes inlight or motion. Readings from the infrared sensors 308 and the opticalsensors 304 may be configured to detect light or motion. The readingsmay be compared to verify or otherwise confirm light or motion. As aresult, virtual assistant decisions regarding user input, biometricreadings, environmental feedback, and other measurements may beeffectively implemented in accordance with readings form the sensors 301as well as other internal or external sensors and the user preferences.The infrared sensors 308 may also include touch sensors integrated withor proximate the infrared sensors 308 externally available to the userwhen the wireless earpieces 302 are worn by the user.

The wireless earpieces 310 may include microphones 310. The microphones310 may represent external microphones as well as internal microphones.The external microphones may be positioned exterior to the body of theuser as worn. The external microphones may sense verbal or audio input,feedback, and commands received from the user. The external microphonesmay also sense environmental, activity, additional users (e.g., clients,jury members, judges, attorneys, paramedicals, etc.), and externalnoises and sounds. The internal microphone may represent an ear-bone orbone conduction microphone. The internal microphone may sensevibrations, waves, or sound communicated through the bones and tissue ofthe user's body (e.g., skull). The microphones 310 may sense contentthat is utilized by the medical engine of the wireless earpieces 302 toimplement the processes, functions, and methods herein described. Theaudio input sensed by the microphones 310 may be filtered, amplified, orotherwise processed before or after being sent to the processor/logic ofthe wireless earpieces 302.

In another embodiment, the wireless earpieces 302 may include chemicalsensors (not shown) that perform chemical analysis of the user's skin,excretions, blood, or any number of internal or external tissues orsamples. For example, the chemical sensors may determine whether thewireless earpieces 302 are being worn by the user. The chemical sensormay also be utilized to monitor important biometrics that may be moreeffectively read utilizing chemical samples (e.g., sweat, blood,excretions, etc.). In one embodiment, the chemical sensors arenon-invasive and may only perform chemical measurements and analysisbased on the externally measured and detected factors. In otherembodiments, one or more probes, vacuums, capillary action components,needles, or other micro-sampling components may be utilized. Minuteamounts of blood or fluid may be analyzed to perform chemical analysisthat may be reported to the user and others. The sensors 301 may includeparts or components that may be periodically replaced or repaired toensure accurate measurements. In one embodiment, the infrared sensors308 may be a first sensor array and the optical sensors 304 may be asecond sensor array.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a process for utilizing a medical engine forwireless earpieces in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Theprocess of FIG. 4 may be implemented by one or more wireless earpieces,such as the wireless earpieces 102 of FIG. 1. The process of FIG. 4 maybe implemented by a medical engine of the wireless earpieces. Themedical engine may operate independently from the medical engines orvirtual assistants of other wireless or computing devices. In analternative embodiment, one or more steps or portions of the process ofFIG. 4 may be implemented by a wireless device, computing device,wearable devices, or any number of other devices communicating directlyor through a network with the wireless earpieces. The processes andsteps of FIGS. 4-7 may be combined as well as performed in any order.

In one embodiment, the process may begin with the wireless earpiecesreceiving a request to be implemented by wireless earpieces (step 402).The request may represent a command, input, feedback, or measurementsindicating that instructions, commands, or input are forthcoming to themedical engine. For example, the request may be a medical request thatspecifies that a reporting command for the medical engine of thewireless earpieces is immediately or subsequently forthcoming. Therequest may also put the medical engine in a “listen” mode. In anotherembodiment, the request may represent the actual instructions, commands,or input the user is communicating for implementation by the medicalengine of the wireless earpieces. For example, the user may ask, “whatis the medical/Latin phrase for something that cannot be cured?” (towhich the wireless earpieces may subsequently respond in the describedprocess as “quod non potest sanari”).

The request may be received in any number of ways associated with thecomponents of the wireless earpieces. In one embodiment, the request maybe a verbal request, such as “when is my next sinus surgery”, or “howmany successful quadruple bypass procedures were performed in Germanylast year?”, or “please translate ‘we need to deliver your baby now’from English into Spanish.” In another embodiment, the request may be atactile request, such as a tap, swipe, or other input detected by thewireless earpieces. In another embodiment, the request may be a gesturedetected by the wireless earpieces, such as a hand motion or shape madeproximate the wireless earpieces, a head nod, or so forth. In anotherembodiment, the request may be a position, location, or orientation ofthe user. For example, in response to determining the user is sittingand leaned forward, the medical engine of the wireless earpieces may beconfigured to audibly play questions previously specified by the userfor questioning a witness.

Next, the wireless earpieces execute a medical engine (step 404). In oneembodiment, the medical engine may be activated as requested by theuser. For example, the request may be converted into a command succeededby the logic or processor of the wireless earpieces to activate themedical engine. In other embodiments, the medical engine may always runas a background program. The medical engine may also be activated basedon user preferences (as is subsequently described). The medical enginemay represent hardware logic (e.g., transistors, gates, digital logic,ASIC, FPGA, etc.) or an application, operating system, kernel,instructions, or other forms of software (or a combination of hardwareand software).

Next, the wireless earpieces access one or more medical databases basedon the request (step 406). In one embodiment, the medical databases maybe stored locally on the wireless earpieces. In another embodiment, themedical databases may be accessed through one or more computing orwireless devices in communication with the wireless earpieces. Therequest may include additional user input or information that isutilized to access the medical databases or services (e.g., WebMD,Medline, etc.). For example, once the request is received the user mayfurther specify that the user wants to retrieve specific information orperform another specific action.

Next, the wireless earpieces implement an action to fulfill the requestutilizing the medical engine of the wireless earpieces (step 408). Themedical engine may implement any number of commands, input, or feedback.In one embodiment, the medical engine may implement the actions withoutrequiring a connection to one or more networks, communicationsconnections, signals, or other devices. The autonomous operation of themedical engine of the wireless earpieces may be particularly useful whenthe user is without a network or device connection, actively engaged ina surgery, treatment, meeting (e.g., patient interview, consultation,treatment presentation, clinic time, conference call, etc.), otheractivity, or so forth. The medical engine may provide research,treatment plans, best-practices, medical board regulations, legalstatutes, insurance information, research, medicine information, ethicalinformation, facts, news reports, biometric data, environmentalinformation, and other data and information to the user. The medicalengine may also initiate, open, close, control, or execute any number ofapplications, logic, components, features, and functions of the wirelessearpieces. For example, a dictation application specific to dictationand transcription may be opened in response to the user saying open “Iam dictating.”

In another embodiment, the medical engine may open a researchapplication by nodding her head twice before saying “find medicalprecedent for changes in blood type due to extensive transfusions.” Themedical engine retrieves the applicable information from the medicaldatabases or memory, logic, sensors, or other components of the wirelessearpieces to immediately provide the answer to the user (or otherwiseindicate that the information is not currently available). In additionalembodiments, the wireless earpieces may have databases, logic, oradditional sensors that allow the wireless earpieces to independentlyanswer medical questions, biometric or location requests, indicateproximity to users and locations, and general knowledge questions (e.g.,the types of answers that existing smart assistants provide“. In oneembodiment, the user may specify types of databases or informationavailable through the medical engine. In one embodiment, the action ofstep 406 may implement a process that requires additional feedback,steps, or so forth.

Although not specifically shown, the wireless earpieces may be linkedwith communications devices. The wireless earpieces may be linked withthe communications device, such as a smart phone, utilizing any numberof communications, standards, or protocols. For example, the wirelessearpieces may be linked with a cell phone by a Bluetooth connection. Theprocess may require that the devices be paired utilizing an identifier,such as a passcode, password, serial number, voice identifier, radiofrequency, or so forth. The wireless earpieces may be linked with thecommunications device and any number of other devices directly orthrough one or more networks, such as a personal area network. Thewireless earpieces may be linked so that actions or commands implementedby the wireless earpieces may also implemented or communicated acrossone or more wireless device(s) (e.g., for reporting, synchronization,process management, etc.). In addition, any number of alerts, messages,or indicators may be sent between the two devices to present informationto the user. In another embodiment, the pairs of wireless earpieces maybe linked with other pairs of wireless earpieces.

The information utilized by the wireless earpieces may come from anynumber of databases (medical or otherwise), sensor components, arrays,memories, or other wireless earpiece resources. Any number of optical,infrared, touch, motion, orientation, and location sensors may beutilized whether internally or externally positioned (e.g., when thewireless earpieces are worn by the user). The sensor measurements may beprocessed or otherwise evaluated by the wireless earpieces forimplementing various processes. For example, one or more processors ofthe wireless earpieces may process the incoming data measurements fromfirst and second sensor arrays so that medical questions or requests maybe quickly answered or retrieved. For example, in response to thewireless earpieces detecting the user of the wireless earpieces or anadditional user asking “when was the agreement executed”, the wirelessearpieces may retrieve the information from available facts to respond“the agreement was executed by both parties on Jun. 21, 2019.” Thewireless earpieces may utilize predictive logic to determine the mostcommon requests received by the wireless earpieces so that theapplicable data, measurements, or processing are already completed orready to be completed without delay based on a request received by themedical engine. Additional, optical, chemical, mechanical, and/orelectrical sensors of the wireless earpieces or a connected wirelessdevice may also be utilized. The sensor measurements are processed forsubsequent analysis, determinations, or decisions, implemented by thewireless earpieces.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a process for utilizing a medical engine forwireless earpieces and a wireless device in accordance with anillustrative embodiment. In one embodiment, the process of FIG. 5 may beimplemented by wireless earpieces 502 in communication with the wirelessdevice 504 (jointly the “system”). The wireless earpieces 502 andwireless device 504 may represent devices, such as those shown in FIGS.1-3. The method of FIG. 5 also be performed independently by either theleft wireless earpiece or the right wireless earpiece.

The process may begin with the wireless earpieces 502 or the wirelessdevice 504 activating a medical engine (step 506). The medical enginemay be automatically or manually activated based on a request from theuser, user preferences, location, activity, date, time-of-day,application commands, or any number of other factors, conditions,parameters, feedback, or so forth. For example, the medical engine maybe activated in response to determining the user is in his office, at acourt house, or in a scheduled meeting. As noted, the wireless earpieces502 and the wireless device 504 may individually or collectivelyimplement or execute a medical engine. The medical engine may representa single instance executed across both devices, common or similarmedical engines, or distinct medical engines. In one embodiment, themedical engine is activated in response to the wireless earpieces 502and/or the wireless device 504 being powered on or in response to amedical engine based application being opened. The request may be toactivate the medical engine or may specify a question, process, oraction the medical engine is activated to address. As a result, thewireless earpieces 502 may request additional input, feedback, orinformation to fulfill the request. Any number of audible, tactile, ortext-based requests may be made through the wireless earpieces 502 orthe wireless device 504.

Next, the wireless earpieces 502 determine whether the request receivedby the medical engine is implementable by the wireless earpieces 502(step 508). The wireless earpieces 502 determine whether the request isimplementable based on the information, applications, processes, andmethodologies available to the wireless earpieces 502. In oneembodiment, the request may be received audibly from the user. In otherembodiments, the request may be automatically or manually receivedalphanumerically, tactilely, based on historical requests, based on userpreferences, or so forth. Reception of the request may be received aspart of step 506 or may alternatively represent a different stepaltogether. In one embodiment, the determination of whether the requestis implementable by the wireless earpieces 502 may be conditional basedon information or data available through one or more medical databasesor services that may be stored locally on the wireless earpieces 502. Inother embodiments, the databases or services may be accessed by thewireless earpieces, but are not implementable by the wireless earpieces(as a stand-alone implementation or action).

In response to determining the request is implementable by the wirelessearpieces 502 during step 508, the wireless earpieces 502 retrieveinformation and data from the medical databases to fulfill the request(step 510). In one embodiment, the medical engine of the wirelessearpieces 502 may retrieve the information from the databases, services,or applications available independently on the wireless earpieces 502.The resources (e.g., databases, services, etc.) available through thewireless earpieces 502 may also include 3^(rd)-party applications,databases, logic, processes, or information that may be automatically ormanually (user selected) uploaded for access by users that wear thewireless earpieces 502. In one embodiment, the wireless earpieces 502may request additional information, clarification, or input in order tofulfill the request.

Next, the wireless earpieces 502 implement an action to fulfill therequest utilizing the medical engine (step 512). As noted, the actionmay be performed by the medical engine or other components, modules,functions, or other portions of the wireless earpieces 502. As needed,the sensors of the wireless earpieces 502 may be utilized to providebiometric, user, and environmental measurements applicable to therequest. In one embodiment, the medical engine may provide definitions,medical protocols, standards of care information, medical or surgicalinstructions, pharmacology information, EMR background information,insurance information, statutes, laws, regulations, or other medicalinformation based on a request that may include “Define . . . ”, “Whatis the sterilization process for . . . ”, “How much anesthetic istypically required for a female, 140 pounds, 38 years old, . . . ”,“What policies does the state medical board have for. . . ”, “What arethe newest and most effective treatments for Crohn's disease . . . ”,and so forth.

In response to determining the request is not implementable (e.g.,entirely) by the wireless earpieces 502 during step 510, the request isprocessed by the medical engine of the wireless device 504 (step 514).In one embodiment, some requests made by the user may require processingpower, information, connections, signals, and networks, or otherresources that may be beyond those available to the wireless earpieces502 alone. As a result, the request may be implemented in part by thewireless device 504 with or without additional communications with thewireless earpieces 502. In one embodiment, the wireless device 504 maylocally store medical databases and logic that may be utilized tosatisfy the request. In another embodiment, the wireless device 504 mayaccess any number of databases or services in order to fulfill therequest. For example, the wireless device may utilize a cellular orWi-Fi connection to retrieve required information.

Next, the wireless device 504 retrieves information and data from thewireless earpieces 502 to fulfill the request (step 510). In oneembodiment, the wireless device 504 may send a request for applicableinformation to the wireless earpieces 502. For example, the wirelessdevice 504 may request user biometrics and sports information that maybe communicated from the wireless earpieces 502 to the wireless deviceat least in part to respond to the request. If information is notrequired from the wireless earpieces 502, the wireless device 504 mayprocess the request without retrieving information as is described instep 510. For example, biometric data may be periodically communicatedor synchronized between the wireless earpieces 502 and the wirelessdevice 504, and, as a result, the wireless device 504 may not requireadditional information or communications with the wireless earpieces502.

Next, the wireless device 504 implements an action to fulfill therequest utilizing the medical engine (step 516). As shown, the wirelessdevice 504 may utilize available information from any number of sourcesto fulfill the request. Fulfilling the request may include providingaudio, text, tactile, or other feedback and instructions to the userthrough the wireless earpieces 502 and/or the wireless device 504. Forexample, instructions for performing a procedure may be provided to theuser in various steps. The user may provide feedback or input for movingfrom step to step (e.g., audibly receiving each instruction fordisinfecting a particular type of wound).

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a process for automatically implementing amedical engine in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In oneembodiment, the process of FIGS. 6 and 7 may be implemented by wirelessearpieces, individually, or as a set. The wireless earpieces may beutilized as stand-alone devices or may communicate with one or moredevices (e.g., a smart phone, tablet, medical database server, etc.)through a connection, signal, or network.

The process may begin by receiving user preferences associated with thewireless earpieces (step 602). In one embodiment, the user preferencesmay be received from a user directly through the wireless earpieces. Forexample, an interactive audio menu may audibly present a number ofoptions to a user in order to receive various selections or feedback.The information may be presented by one or more speakers and user inputmay be received through one or more microphones of the wirelessearpieces. The user may also provide the user preferences utilizing freeform text, such as “track my heart rate at all times” or “automaticallyprocess and prepare my vital statistics when I'm at the doctor'soffice.” In another embodiment, the user preferences may be selectedutilizing a graphical user interface, web interface, or other interfaceavailable through a smart case, wireless device (e.g., graphical userinterface of an application in communication with the wirelessearpieces), a computing device, or other electronics configured tocommunicate with the wireless earpieces through a physical or wirelessconnection. Any number of menus, pages, icons, menus, scroll options,tabs, radio buttons, and so forth may be utilized to provide the userpreferences. User preferences received through a separate device may besynchronized to the wireless earpieces. The user preferences may also bespecified by a medical professional associated with the user, such as anurse, general practitioner, surgeon, specialist, caregiver, or soforth.

Next, the wireless earpieces capture data and information about the userand the environment of the user based on the user preferences (step604). The wireless earpieces include a number of sensors for measuringuser biometrics, the user's environment, and other applicableinformation. The user preferences may specify when the distinct sensorarrays are activated to perform measurements. For example, the userpreferences may specify that heart rate information, includingapplicable statistics and other mathematical analysis, are available tothe user anytime the wireless earpieces are worn by the user. The userpreferences may also set the wireless earpieces to monitor the user'swords and actions to anticipate potential needs.

The data and information may be utilized to perform analysis orcalculations to provide valuable information, suggestions,recommendations, alerts, or other information to the user before evenbeing requested. In one embodiment, the wireless earpieces mayspecifically monitor the health condition of the user and may sendalerts or requests for help in response to determining the user isdistressed. The wireless earpieces may also be utilized to monitorspecific user conditions, such as an irregular heartbeat, sever flu,diabetes monitoring, or so forth.

Next, the wireless earpieces determine whether to provide automaticassistance through the medical engine (step 606). In one embodiment, thedetermination of step 606 may be performed automatically in response tothe user preferences provided by the user. In another embodiment, thewireless earpieces may prompt the user with a question whether the userwould like assistance from the medical engine. User input may also bereceived through tactile input, gestures near the wireless earpieces, orso forth.

In one embodiment, the user preferences may specify a user location,orientation, determine action/activity, or user input that may bedetected by the sensors of the wireless earpieces to automaticallyprovide assistance through the medical engine of the wireless earpieces.For example, the wireless earpieces may detect that the user issuffering from sleep apnea and may automatically alert the user to“Please put on your sleep apnea breathing device.” The wirelessearpieces may then provide feedback to the user regarding his sleeppatterns in the morning. As a result, the wireless earpieces may have aspecific user biometrics, such as heart rate, average heart rate,respiration rate, recorded snoring, and other information ready shouldthe user provide a specified question or keyword, such as “how did Isleep last night?”

The user preferences may specify any number of keywords, gestures, headmovements, or tactile input that may be utilized to provide thespecified user biometrics. The user preferences may also include a timeror time period, such as every 10 minutes when the user's heart rate isover 120 bpm or under 65 bpm to provide the specified user biometricsregardless of other selections that may be made utilizing the wirelessearpieces or a connected wireless device. In another embodiment, thewireless earpieces may detect the user has just laid down and mayautomatically begin playing a preselected playlist of relaxing musicwhile reporting user specified biometrics. In another embodiment, thewireless earpieces may automatically prepare a message, such as a textmessage indicating “I am experiencing nausea” in response to thedetected motions of the user's head and any verbal cues that may bereceived or detected. The user preferences may be utilized to provideenhanced communication as well as a safety measure for the user. Forexample, the wireless earpieces may also text or post the user's lastknown biometrics, location, and activity for specified individuals thatare trusted with that information e.g., doctor, immediate family,friends, etc.).

If the wireless earpieces determine to not provide automatic assistancethrough the medical engine during step 606, the wireless earpiecescontinue to capture data and information about the user the environmentor the user based on the user preferences (step 604). Updated userpreferences establishing how and when the medical engine of the wirelessearpieces are utilized may be updated at any time as shown in step 602.

If the wireless earpieces determine to provide automatic assistancethrough the medical engine during step 606, the wireless earpiecesgenerate automatic assistance through the medical engine utilizing thedata and information (step 608). The medical engine may function inaccordance with the user preferences previously established by the user.

Next, the wireless earpieces communicate the automatic assistance to theuser through the medical engine (step 610). In one embodiment, themedical engine may automatically health statistics (e.g., current heartrate, average heart rate, maximum heart rate, motion/movement of theuser, etc.). The medical engine may also periodically report custominformation to the user based on the user preferences. For example, thecustom information may include a timer, user's temperature, and anenvironmental temperature. In one embodiment, the medical engine of thewireless earpieces may interject to provide warnings based on determineduser biometrics that are associated with a user health condition. Forexample, if the medical engine determines based on the user'sbiometrics, she may be overheating, the medical engine may provide awarning to the user and encourage that the user rest, cool down, drinklots of water and seek out medical attention as needed/available. Theautomatic assistance may be provided through the wireless earpieces aswell as any number of connected devices.

In other embodiments, the wireless earpieces may implement an action orprovide automatic assistance to address a health or medical status issueassociated with the user. The sensors may read various user biometricsthat may be utilized by the logic (e.g., processing and comparisonagainst user supplied or predefined thresholds) to determine the healthor medical status of the user. For example, the wireless earpieces maydetermine the user is overheating, passed out, suffering an allergyattack, experiencing an asthmatic event, lethargic, fatigue, hearingloss, drunk, slurring speech, in shock, hypertensive, in diabetic shock,dehydrated, in pain, stressed, or so forth. Any number of health ormedical conditions or states may be detected by the wireless earpiecesbased on the applicable health factors and parameters that may beascertained by the sensors (e.g., pulse rate, respiration rate,temperature, position, orientation, voice characteristics, bloodpressure, blood chemical content, skin measurements, impact/forcelevels, and associated statistics, trends, etc.). The sensors of thewireless earpieces (e.g., microphone, blood monitor, optical scanners,accelerometer, gyroscope, potentiometer, heart rate monitor, or othermonitoring device. The wireless earpieces may identify warning signs aswell as conditions to notify the user, guardians, administrators,caregivers, or so forth. The wireless earpieces may utilize any numberof libraries, databases, or other information, settings, parameters, orthresholds to determine a status or condition of a user.

It should be noted that one or more wireless earpieces may be worn by ahealth care provider during a patient encounter. During, before, orafter the patient encounter, voice audio of the health care provider maybe sensed. This may include the health care provider making notes forrecords, or asking the patient questions. This data may provide a firstportion of contextual data. Audio associated with the patient may alsobe sensed such as by using a microphone of the one or more wirelessearpieces. This may be, for example, voice audio of responses to thequestions asked by the health care provider. This may alternatively beother sounds associated with the patient including sounds of thepatient's breathing, coughing, sneezing, or other sounds. Data fromother medical devices or computing devices in operative communicationwith the wireless earpiece(s) may also provide contextual data includingphysiological data sensed at the other devices. A query may then begenerated at the medical engine of the wireless earpiece(s) which mayincorporate contextual data. Information may then be retrieved inresponse to the query from at least one medical database. This mayinclude expert medical databases as well as medical record databases.For example, a health care provider may ask a patient if the patient istaking any non-prescription medications and this audio is detected atthe wireless earpiece and recognized. The patient may respond and thisaudio is detected at the wireless earpiece and recognized. A patientidentifier may be determined such as through accessing applications on amobile device or other computing device in operative connection with thewireless earpiece, or by receiving this identifying information from thehealth care provider. Based on this information, for example, the querymay be to determine if there are any adverse effects of taking thisnon-prescription medication. The inclusion of the patient identifier inthe query may be used so that patient medical records within the medicalrecord databases may be accessed including a prescription history. Thus,the medical record databases may, for example, include a database ofpatient records as well as a database of drug interactions. Informationin response to the query may be that there is a known adverseinteraction between the prescription drugs prescribed to the patient andthe non-prescription drugs being taken. Such a query can be performedwithout needing the health care provider to make a specific request ofthe wireless earpieces for this information. The health care providermay be notified in various ways. For example, the wireless earpieces maygenerate audio telling the health care provider that there is apotential adverse drug interaction. In some embodiments, an audionotification such as a short sound may be generated to alert the healthcare provider or make them aware that there is important informationavailable and then the health care provider may request the informationfrom the wireless earpieces such as by making a voice request orotherwise using the user interface to indicate that the provider wouldlike to receive the information. The same information may also becommunicated from the wireless earpiece(s) to other devices associatedwith the health care provider such as a mobile device such as a mobilephones or tablet.

FIG. 7 is a passive process for utilizing a medical engine in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment. The process of FIG. 7 may begin byexecuting a medical engine for the wireless earpieces (step 702). Themedical engine may represent common virtual or digital assistants, suchas Sin, Alexa, Cortana, OK Google, Watson, or any number of serviceproviders or companies. In one embodiment, the medical engine may run asa background process on the wireless earpieces that may be utilized atany time. The medical engine may also be activated based on user input,such as a voice command, tactile input, gesture, user movement, userpreferences, or so forth. In other embodiments, the medical engine maybe integrated with an operating system, kernel, or set of instructionsavailable to the wireless earpieces. The medical engine may alsorepresent an application executed by the wireless earpieces.

Next, the wireless earpieces passively collect information and datautilizing sensors of the wireless earpieces (step 702). The wirelessearpieces may collect information in accordance with user preferences,settings, or other permissions of the wireless earpieces. The wirelessearpieces may be utilized in a hospital, nursing home, care facility,rehabilitation center, home, office, business, outdoor setting, triagecenter, or so forth. As a result, the user may not feel that thewireless earpieces are invading the privacy of the user. The user mayalso specify how the information and data is saved, archived, orotherwise communicated to a wireless device or other applicable devicesor systems.

In one embodiment, the wireless earpieces may analyze the speechpatterns of the user. For example, the wireless earpieces may beutilized to provide feedback for users that are learning a new language,trying to improve their grammar, vocabulary, or accent, or otherwisetrying to enhance their speech and language characteristics. Thewireless earpieces may also be utilized for medical purposes, such ashelping a disabled user develop new speech or motor skills. Similarly,the wireless earpieces may be utilized to help a user regain speech andmotor functions after a stroke, heart attack, or other medicalcondition. For example, the user may be prompted to say a number ofwords, phrases, or sentences and may then be coached, corrected, orotherwise guided to make improvements based on the voice input read fromthe user by the microphones of the wireless earpieces.

In another embodiment, the wireless earpieces may analyze the speech ofthe user to determine applicable questions or requests that the user mayhave. The applicable medical engine may utilize automatic speechrecognition to transcribe human speech (e.g., commands, questions,dictation, etc.) into text or other formats for subsequent analysis. Themedical engine may also perform natural language processing (e.g.,speech tagging, noun-phrase chunking, dependency and constituentparsing, etc.) to translate transcribed text into parsed text.

During step 704, the medical engine may also perform question and intentanalysis to analyze parsed text. For example, parsed text may beassociated with particular user commands and actions (e.g., “Tell me myheart rate”, “What is my blood pressure?”, “Wake me in 30 minutes”,“Tell me if my sugar levels are low”, etc.). The medical engine may alsolook up patient history information, medical history, symptoms, previoustreatments, current treatments, pharmacology information, genomic data,family history, allergies, known conditions, and so forth to providevaluable information or references.

Next, the wireless earpieces provide feedback to the user utilizing themedical engine (step 706). In one embodiment, the feedback may beprovided in response to a user input or request. In another embodiment,the feedback may be automatically provided to the user. In one example,the feedback of step 706 may be applicable to the language analysisperformed during step 404. For example, the medical engine may indicate“clean the wound thoroughly before applying the antibiotics.” Similarly,the user may receive audible instructions on how to properly pronounce,write, or spell medical or Latin terms. A phonetic spelling may also besent to a wireless device in communication with the wireless earpieces.In another example, if the user asks in conversation, “Where is Julie?”,the medical engine may look up applicable mapping information duringstep 404 that may have been previously shared with the user by Julie(e.g., Find Friends, Glympse, Google Maps, Waze, etc.) for communicationto the user, such as Julie is 2.3 miles away and headed in yourdirection at 35 mph. The medical engine may prompt the user to makerequests or ask questions. For example, the medical engine may promptthe user to ask any number of questions, such as “how much water haveyou drank today”, “when did you last take your medicine”, “when did youlast take his temperature”, “how long have you had this condition”,“have you fallen recently”, “are you sleeping well”, or any number ofother questions. In some embodiments, the wireless earpieces may beutilized as a tool for an unskilled party to facilitate remote medicalpersonnel

The illustrative embodiments may take the form of an entirely hardwareembodiment, an entirely software embodiment (including firmware,resident software, micro-code, etc.) or an embodiment combining softwareand hardware aspects that may all generally be referred to herein as a“circuit,” “module” or “system.” Furthermore, embodiments of theinventive subject matter may take the form of a computer program productembodied in any tangible medium of expression having computer usableprogram code embodied in the medium. The described embodiments may beprovided as a computer program product, or software, that may include amachine-readable medium having stored thereon instructions, which may beused to program a computing system (or other electronic device(s)) toperform a process according to embodiments, whether presently describedor not, since every conceivable variation is not enumerated herein. Amachine readable medium includes any mechanism for storing ortransmitting information in a form (e.g., software, processingapplication) readable by a machine (e.g., a computer). Themachine-readable medium may include, but is not limited to, magneticstorage medium (e.g., floppy diskette); optical storage medium (e.g.,CD-ROM); magneto-optical storage medium; read only memory (ROM); randomaccess memory (RAM); erasable programmable memory (e.g., EPROM andEEPROM); flash memory; or other types of medium suitable for storingelectronic instructions. In addition, embodiments may be embodied in anelectrical, optical, acoustical or other form of propagated signal(e.g., carrier waves, infrared signals, digital signals, etc.), orwireline, wireless, or other communications medium.

Computer program code for carrying out operations of the embodiments maybe written in any combination of one or more programming languages,including an object oriented programming language such as Java,Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional procedural programminglanguages, such as the “C” programming language or similar programminglanguages. The program code may execute entirely on a user's computer,partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partlyon the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely onthe remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remotecomputer may be connected to the user's computer through any type ofnetwork, including a local area network (LAN), a personal area network(PAN), or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to anexternal computer (e.g., through the Internet using an Internet ServiceProvider).

FIG. 8 depicts a computing system 800 in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment. For example, the computing system 800 may represent adevice, such as the wireless device 204 of FIG. 2. The computing system800 includes a processor unit 801 (possibly including multipleprocessors, multiple cores, multiple nodes, and/or implementingmulti-threading, etc.). The computing system includes memory 807. Thememory 807 may be system memory (e.g., one or more of cache, SRAM, DRAM,zero capacitor RAM, Twin Transistor RAM, eDRAM, EDO RAM, DDR RAM,EEPROM, NRAM, RRAM, SONOS, PRAM, etc.) or any one or more of the abovealready described possible realizations of machine-readable media. Thecomputing system also includes a bus 803 (e.g., PCI, ISA, PCI-Express,HyperTransport®, InfiniBand®, NuBus, etc.), a network interface 806(e.g., an ATM interface, an Ethernet interface, a Frame Relay interface,SONET interface, wireless interface, etc.), and a storage device(s) 809(e.g., optical storage, magnetic storage, etc.). The system memory 807embodies functionality to implement all or portions of the embodimentsdescribed above. The system memory 807 may include one or moreapplications or sets of instructions for implementing a medical engineto communicate with one or more wireless earpieces. The medical enginemay be stored in the system memory 807 and executed by the processorunit 802. As noted, the medical engine may be similar or distinct from amedical engine utilized by the wireless earpieces. Code may beimplemented in any of the other devices of the computing system 800. Anyone of these functionalities may be partially (or entirely) implementedin hardware and/or on the processing unit 801. For example, thefunctionality may be implemented with an application specific integratedcircuit, in logic implemented in the processing unit 801, in aco-processor on a peripheral device or card, etc. Further, realizationsmay include fewer or additional components not illustrated in FIG. 8(e.g., video cards, audio cards, additional network interfaces,peripheral devices, etc.). The processor unit 801, the storage device(s)809, and the network interface 805 are coupled to the bus 803. Althoughillustrated as being coupled to the bus 803, the memory 807 may becoupled to the processor unit 801. The computing system 800 may furtherinclude any number of optical sensors, accelerometers, magnetometers,microphones, gyroscopes, temperature sensors, and so forth for verifyinguser biometrics, or environmental conditions, such as motion, light, orother events that may be associated with the wireless earpieces or theirenvironment.

The features, steps, and components of the illustrative embodiments maybe combined in any number of ways and are not limited specifically tothose described. In particular, the illustrative embodiments contemplatenumerous variations in the smart devices and communications described.The foregoing description has been presented for purposes ofillustration and description. It is not intended to be an exhaustivelist or limit any of the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. Itis contemplated that other alternatives or exemplary aspects areconsidered included in the disclosure. The description is merelyexamples of embodiments, processes or methods of the invention. It isunderstood that any other modifications, substitutions, and/or additionsmay be made, which are within the intended spirit and scope of thedisclosure. For the foregoing, it can be seen that the disclosureaccomplishes at least all of the intended objectives.

The previous detailed description is of a small number of embodimentsfor implementing the invention and is not intended to be limiting inscope. The following claims set forth a number of the embodiments of theinvention disclosed with greater particularity.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for implementing a medical engine utilizing a wireless earpiece worn by a health care provider during a patient encounter, the method comprising: sensing voice audio of the health care provider using the wireless earpiece to provide a first portion of contextual data; sensing audio associated with a patient of the health care provider using the wireless earpiece to further provide a second portion of the contextual data; generating a query at a medical engine of the wireless earpiece using the contextual data; retrieving information in response to the query from at least one medical database; presenting the information to the health care provider at the wireless earpiece.
 2. The method of claim 1 further comprising acquiring a patient identifier to provide a third portion of contextual data.
 3. The method of claim 2 wherein the query includes the patient identifier.
 4. The method of claim 3 wherein the at least one medical database includes a medical database containing patient records for the patient.
 5. The method of claim 1 further comprising notifying the health care provider about availability of the information prior to presenting the information to the health care provider.
 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving a request from the health care provider through the wireless earpiece and wherein the query is based in part on the request.
 7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the medical engine is implemented independently by the wireless earpieces, and wherein at least one medical databases are stored on a memory of the wireless earpiece.
 8. The method according to claim 1, further comprising sensing physiological data of the patient using medical equipment and receiving the physiological data at the wireless earpiece, wherein the physiological data provides an additional portion of the contextual data.
 9. A method for implementing a medical engine utilizing wireless earpieces, the method comprising: providing a set of wireless earpieces wherein at least one of the wireless earpieces comprises a frame for fitting in an ear of a health care provider, a plurality of sensors measuring biometrics and actions associated with the health care provider and a patient of the health care provider, a logic engine operatively connected to the plurality of sensors and configured to execute a medical assistant, and a transceiver operatively connected to the logic engine; collecting contextual data from the set of wireless earpieces using the plurality of sensors and from one or more additional electronic devices associated with the health care provider; executing a medical engine on the wireless earpieces to interpret the contextual data into a query; retrieving information associated with the query from one or more medical databases accessible to the wireless earpieces; and generating audio at the set of wireless earpieces to convey the information to the health care provider.
 10. The method of claim 9 wherein the contextual data comprises voice audio from a patient detected at one or more microphones of the wireless earpieces.
 11. The method of claim 9 further comprising making the health care provider aware of the availability of the information and receiving permission from the health care provider through the set of wireless earpieces to convey the information to the health care provider via the audio. 